As a beginner golfer, one of the most frustrating parts of playing, is getting to the green then pitching "over" the green. Sometimes I would miss the green a few times. This has got to be one of the most frustrating parts of the game. I took a few lessons a while back, and my teacher was adamant about the importance of the short game in golf.
I really believe he is right. You can either have a lot of frustration or a lot of fun, depending on how well you can use a sand wedge!. I found some videos that have helped me. Steven Bann has made some videos on pitching and this one in particular makes a lot of sense. If all we know how to do is a "full swing", we will be overshooting the green often.
The next time you are at the driving range, put away your driver and try a few short shots. You will find that your game will improve greatly, if you improve your ability to hit the shots that are 50 yards and less.
Steve does a great job in this video explaining the backswing and the follow through for some short shots.